Scripture: Luke 22:1-6
The Plot to Kill Jesus
1 Now the Feast of Unleavened Bread drew near, which is called the Passover. 2 And the chief priests and the scribes were seeking how to put him to death, for they feared the people.
Judas to Betray Jesus
3 Then Satan entered into Judas called Iscariot, who was of the number of the twelve. 4 He went away and conferred with the chief priests and officers how he might betray him to them. 5 And they were glad, and agreed to give him money. 6 So he consented and sought an opportunity to betray him to them in the absence of a crowd.
Devotional Thoughts for Holy Wednesday
Compared to the previous days of Passion Week, Wednesday seems like there isn’t much going on, but as we take a deeper look, we realize that Wednesday is the turning point. Once decisions are made on Wednesday, the path to the cross is all downhill with no brakes.
The religious leaders are actively seeking ways to put Jesus to death without angering the people who had respect and great expectations for Jesus’ ministry. Sadly they only feared what the people might think or do in response to killing him, instead of fearing God the Father. The religious leaders had no remorse about plotting to kill the Son of God, they only needed to find a politically correct way to execute their plan. Enter stage left, Judas Iscariot.
There are many theories as to what could have caused Judas to betray Jesus. It could have been jealousy of the other disciples. It could have been that he thought being associated with Jesus would bring him status and prestige. Regardless of his reasons, verse 3 tells us that Satan entered Judas. Judas still holds responsibility for his actions though because he did nothing against his own will. Judas approached the religious leaders and asked what they would be willing to give him for turning over Jesus. Once they decided on the price of 30 pieces of silver, Judas began to look for opportunities to turn Jesus over to the religious authorities.
It is easy to sit here today and judge the decisions of Judas. How horrible of a person do you have to be to betray Jesus, the Messiah? But let us take a few moments of self-examination. How many times do we choose to put time and effort into things that are not benefiting our relationship with Jesus? Let us spend today evaluating our relationship with Christ and pray for God to show us what changes we need to make.
Songs of Worship and Reflection
Sidewalk Prophets — “You Love Me Anyway” with Lyrics
Lauren Daigle – First (Lyric Video)
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